Gmail Introduces Verification ID Requirement with New Feature

Gmail has had a hectic August, with the introduction of a translation feature for its mobile app and now the addition of new security measures. These measures aim to safeguard the platform from malicious individuals and cybercriminals. By implementing these features, Gmail will enhance the security of sensitive actions that could potentially result in harmful consequences. Google will assess activities like adding a forwarding address, modifying filters, or enabling IMAP access. If Google deems these actions as potentially risky, users will be prompted to verify their identity.

Google explained this in more detail in a blog post where it stated: “A second and trusted factor, such as a 2-step verification code, allows users to verify the correctness of an operation. If the verification challenge fails or is not completed, users are sent a ‘Critical Security Alert’ from trusted devices .

Gmail gets new security features

According to Google, the following tasks will be added to this verification system and users may need to complete two-factor authentication in order to complete these tasks. These actions include e.g.

• Filters: create a new filter, edit an existing filter, or import filters.
• Forwarding: Adding a new forwarding address from forwarding and POP/IMAP settings.
• IMAP access: Enable IMAP access mode in the settings. (This feature is only visible to those authorized by the Workspace administrator)

Users should note that this feature currently only supports those using Google as an identity provider and actions taken in Google products. This means that SAML users are not supported right now.

Currently, the feature is available to all Google Workspace customers and users with a personal Google Account. This means that some organizations or individuals with business accounts may not receive this feature. Google may release it to all users in the future, but there is no word on that.

The rollout of these features has already started on August 23. The feature will be rolled out gradually and will reach all users over the next 15 days. Full rollout is expected by September 6th, with full visibility of the feature within 1-3 days thereafter.